Slovakia–Hungary Border Crossing

The border between Slovakia and Hungary stretches for about 655 kilometers and forms an important connection between the two countries. This border, which is significant both geographically and politically, is crossed by numerous crossings that are of central importance for passenger and freight traffic. In this article, we look at the key aspects of these options, including their length, existing checks and entry requirements, the currency situation, and specific information about the respective countries. Finally, we focus on the most important border crossings and their special features.

Length of the border crossings

The options for crossing the border between Slovakia and Hungary along its 655 kilometers are diverse, ranging from major, well-developed road and rail crossings to smaller, regionally important connections. The most important crossings include:

• Komárom–Komárno crossing
• Esztergom–Štúrovo crossing
• Rajka–Rusovce crossing

Each crossing plays an important role in cross-border traffic. While the overall length of the border remains constant, the importance of individual crossings varies depending on traffic volume and geographic location.

Border checks and entry requirements

Since Slovakia and Hungary joined the Schengen Area, border checks have largely been abolished at most crossings. However, in certain situations—such as security-related incidents or increased migration pressure—there may be temporary checks, even within the European Union. We recommend that you always check the current regulations before traveling.

The Schengen guidelines allow citizens of both countries to cross the border smoothly without major delays. An important source of information is the official websites of the countries, both the Slovak Republic and Hungary.

For citizens of Slovakia and Hungary traveling within the Schengen Area, entry requirements are generally straightforward. A valid national ID card or passport is sufficient to cross the border. For travelers from third countries, different rules may apply, which can require verification of travel documents. Please note that in certain cases—such as missing visas or incomplete documents—entry may be refused.

General information about Hungary

Hungary, a landlocked country in Central Europe, is known for its rich culture, history, and beautiful landscapes. The country plays an important role in the region and is a member of the European Union, but not part of the euro area. The capital, Budapest—considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe—is the cultural and political center of the country. Hungary maintains close economic and political ties with its neighbors, including Slovakia, which is reflected in numerous cross-border projects.

Currency

In Hungary, the national currency is the forint (HUF). It is firmly established in everyday life and is used in all areas of public life. Unlike Slovakia, which introduced the euro (EUR) as its official currency, the forint remains an important element of national identity and the economy in Hungary. It is recommended to have enough forints when entering Hungary, especially if you plan to use smaller shops or services, as euros are not always accepted.

Paying toll charges

In Hungary, a vignette is required for using motorways and certain expressways. The toll can be purchased directly at the border, at special sales points, or more conveniently online as a digital vignette for Hungary. A vignette is also required in Slovakia and can likewise be purchased online as a digital vignette for Slovakia.

The most important border crossings

The following sections provide information about Slovakia’s road and rail crossings.

Road crossings

• Komárom–Komárno: This crossing is particularly important because it includes two bridges over the Danube. The new bridge was built specifically for road traffic and facilitates the transport of goods and people between the two countries. In addition, there is the historic Elisabeth Bridge, which is considered a cultural landmark and represents an important connection between the two towns. This point is also referred to as the “point in the north.”
• Esztergom–Štúrovo: The Maria Valeria Bridge at Esztergom–Štúrovo is another key crossing over the Danube. This bridge is not only of historical significance, but also an important transport link between Hungary and Slovakia.
• Rajka–Rusovce: This crossing is located near the Austrian border in the south and serves as an important hub for traffic between Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria. It is especially popular with travelers heading to or from Vienna.
• Tornyosnémeti–Milhosť: A lesser-known but still significant crossing in the east of the border, which plays an important role mainly for regional traffic.

Rail crossings

• Komárom–Komárno: In addition to the road bridges, there is also an important rail connection in the west linking the two towns and therefore the two countries. This connection plays a central role in freight transport and is of great importance for the economies of both countries.

Slovakia

The following section provides an overview of whether you need a vignette and whether distance-based tolls apply.

Slovakia: vignette required (or not?)

A vignette is required on almost all motorway and expressway sections in Slovakia. The vignette requirement applies to vehicles up to 3.5 t gross vehicle weight. It is important to note that motorcycles are exempt from the vignette requirement and do not need a vignette. Motorhomes are a special case, as they require a vignette regardless of their weight (even if they weigh more than 3.5 t gross vehicle weight). In addition, for vehicle combinations (car + trailer), it should be noted that if the weight is under 3.5 t gross vehicle weight, only the vignette for the car is required, whereas if the total weight exceeds 3.5 t gross vehicle weight, an additional vignette must be purchased for the trailer.

Motorcycles are therefore exempt from the vignette requirement and do not have to pay any fees for using motorways and expressways!

The role of distance-based tolls

The vignette requirement does not apply to vehicles over 3.5 t gross vehicle weight (except motorhomes, which are subject to the vignette requirement regardless of their weight). Instead, a distance-based toll is charged, calculated based on the kilometers driven, the vehicle class (number of axles), and the emission class (pollution level). This distance-based toll is recorded using a transponder, i.e., a transmitting device (on-board unit). This allows the amount due to be debited automatically. Therefore, you must have such a transmitting device installed in your vehicle in advance. The distance-based toll covers motorways, expressways, and in part first-class roads (federal roads) and second-class roads (state/regional roads).

Hungary

The following section provides an overview of whether you need a vignette and whether there is a distance-based toll.

Hungary: vignette required (or not?)

In Hungary, a vignette is required for cars, vehicle combinations, and motorhomes. This is the so-called e-Matrica (Hungarian vignette), where the toll is checked electronically via the license plate. You should purchase the e-vignette online before your trip, because if you drive on a toll road without an e-vignette, you may face fines. Depending on the vehicle class, different vignettes apply. If you are unsure about your vehicle class, you can find more detailed information here.

The role of distance-based tolls

You must pay the distance-based toll if your vehicle exceeds 3.5 t gross vehicle weight. This means that motorhomes, buses, and trucks have had to pay a distance-based electronic toll since January 2024, which is calculated via the HU-GO system (electronic toll collection). The distance-based toll therefore replaces the vignette, meaning you no longer need it.

The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey

We wish you a pleasant trip to Slovakia and lots of enjoyment while exploring this diverse country. You can easily buy the right vignette for Slovakia and for Hungary from us. You are also welcome to read more articles about both countries—for example, about the popular cities in Slovakia and the culinary specialties of the country, or the popular cities in Hungary and the Bükk National Park. You can find more information about tolls in Slovakia or tolls in Hungary in our guide. Feel free to use our route planner to plan your trip optimally and have suitable toll products displayed. If you have any questions, you can contact us at any time by email.